From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The African Diaspora Impact Center has  announced a $500 million initiative to enhance food security and boost diaspora investments in Nigeria and other African countries. 
President of the Center, Chidi Jacob, in a statement yesterday, explained that the initiative is part of the Center’s broader strategy to reduce investment risks, and to encourage diaspora investments while leveraging their talents and expertise to drive African development.
According to him, the scheme will focus on setting up agro-industrial parks to bolster agricultural productivity and value addition.
He said: “The African Diaspora Impact Center is thrilled to unveil a transformative $500 million initiative aimed at eradicating hunger and fostering sustainable agriculture across
Africa.
“This initiative is a key part of the Center’s broader strategy to reduce investment risks, thereby encouraging diaspora investments while leveraging their talents and expertise to drive African development.
“Our commitment to revolutionizing Africa’s food systems serves to not only increase the continent’s contribution to the global food supply but also to enhance economic growth and community empowerment throughout Africa.
“The initiative will focus on setting up Agro-Industrial Parks to bolster agricultural productivity and value addition, drive technological and innovative advancements in agriculture and supply chain logistics to address food security challenges, and collaborate closely with governments to establish favorable policies and regulations.”
He added that the initiative would involve youths and local communities to ensure culturally specific needs are met and employs investment de-risking measures to encourage greater financial involvement from the diaspora.
“We are implementing a robust monitoring and evaluation system to ensure the initiative’s accountability and transparency.
“Our ultimate goal is to enhance access to nutritious food across Africa while catalyzing development through diaspora-driven efforts.
“The African Diaspora Impact Center welcomes partners, stakeholders, and communities to join this journey toward a food-secure future for Africa and the world.
“The African Diaspora Impact Center is committed to harnessing the expertise and resources of the African Diaspora to drive sustainable development across the continent.”